I hope you and Ruben are off on a fabulous trip or some other happy adventure. Enjoy your time and know that we are awaiting your return. I'm all for ice cream and friendship. Off to order Koralee's book. '-)Happiness thoughts sent your way ~ Sarah

I totally understand the feelings you have and as you know, am currently not blogging myself. Enjoy the time with family and some warmer weather. I was born in Los Angeles and know the coast and city well:) Have fun!

Anita I am very much enjoying my long blog break, and this break has helped make me realize that when I return I will be blogging only on a part time basis. Life is too short so I now only want to blog when I feel like it or want to, and I do hope you enjoy your break from blogging and come back with a clear head and maybe decide how you wish to blog in the future. Your non-Amish buddy Richard

Anita sweetie what are you going to do??...Why stop blogging ????...tell me please......i Will Miss you....great the book of koralee like icecream !!!....love to have one.....love love from me.....xxx....xxx....xxx....

Oh Anita,I will miss you so. Please stop by sometimes, as the blogging world will not be the same without you. I understand, dear, because if anyone ever deserved a break, it would be YOU. You GIVE greatly, and you always make us feel so special on a regular basis, and bring light and love to all of our lives. This is great news about your friend's book, and I will check it out right now. It looks like a sweet one.

Have a nice time off, and e-mail me sometime so I can get a bit of that sunshine that you so lovingly give.

Why are we all feeling a need to step away from blogging? I feel like that as well…I don't like the fact that I've cornered myself into certain posts on certain days. Its making me feel trapped! Surely you will be back? We will miss you! Funny you posted this today as it's been on my heart…and Ice Cream has been on my mind! And my husband and I are literally booking our trip to St. Lucia in about an hour as he chose it for his 50th birthday! I just saw the ad at the bottom of your post! Small world we live in! Glad blogging keeps us together in some ways!

I know you will return when you're ready. I also understand how difficult it is to fit everything in, especially now that you are involved in your entrepreneurial ventures. I wishing you much sweet success and a wonderful good time off on holiday.You cannot hide your light, Anita, where ever you are you will shine.xx's

Oh such nice happiness from your post Anita. It has been so refreshing. I love the 1995 'Sense and Sensibility'. I loved this music. Just before I read your post I had some Rocky Road ice cream. Awh, how timely.

I loved the fun red curly font you used. I love the frilly signs of feminine friendship and the happiness of this post. Remember 'happiness' is my word for 2013. Yup, I am happy to be 60 and have many tell me I don't look it. Wow, I'm so grateful for awesome blog friends, like you!

Well, you know I have been on a break since last year. Still undecided if I want to take it up again, but I do try and keep up with reading other blogs when I can. We all have changes in our lives and passions and interests can come and go. we also need to recharge our batteries! Hope you enjoy your break friend!~Hugs, Patti

Indeed, the time has come to quiet our souls, my friend. As you know, the shop's hanging up its own "Gone Fishing" sign. :) I anticipate your return and all the new stories your heart will reveal. Love Koralee's page. I must go take a peek at her new book.

BRAVO on your newest illustrations. You are a blessing to me and to so many.MUAH!!!Besos y abrazos!!

Oh my DEAR FRIEND!! You are way too kind ...I can not find the words to express how much this post means to me. Thank you so much...just to know you have my book on your coffee table makes me so so happy! I truly feel blessed to call you my friend.That quote is so perfect!..."be enthusiastic about the success of others just as you are about your own" ..You are a GEM! A shining beauty loved by so many because you truly care about others! Thank you. xoxoxoxo

Will miss your grace and beauty in your postings during your break. I am sure it's a much needed break, a relaxing getaway perhaps, or just taking time to reflect, and inspiring the soul with the inspiration all around you.

Anita, i am excited. To see what your grey desk has turned out to look like, and where you placed it, and best how it brings your space to life. It's so French to see the calm of grey in a home, it really truly speaks to ones French home, or the peacefulness of grey in what it adds to a cottage look.

Anita! What part of California are you visiting, and is this business or just pure relaxation for what's next in store for you.

You are leaving in March right? But taking this time to prepare for it right. Well do stop by if you can, I would love to see your beauty over at my place.

I sent you my two latest theatres and the very next day I listed them they both sold to the same lady. I was over joyed that she is finding inspiration in the soul I try to create for others to enjoy.I made two large ones so very close in style, and a small one, I am holding back on one for myself, it's one I want to add to, and create an exposition where I can create a new place of drama.

Let me know where in California you are traveling to is it with your hubby?

Rest, take in the calm, knowing that when our needs get met, we don't seem to need them anymore.

Enjoy your break sweet friend. I am still searching for a pic of the boys together so you can work your magic. I adore your work!! That book looks divine! Hope you're enjoying your week! Much love Bella! Xx

Dear Anita, Seems to be something in the air, all my special bloggers I follow are taking time away. Your creative soul needs a rest, hope it's Paris where you will be shining like a star into the wee hours! You will be missed but we all have to take time away. Bless you and yours and hope you return soon.

Anita,I will miss your beautiful blog, but I will look forward to taking the time to go back and look through the archives of this stunning piece of art!Enjoy your time with your husband, and take care of yourself.~cheryl

Dearest Anita,so sweet your post and tribute to sweet success and Koralees new book! It looks gorgeous and so like her!Hope you enjoy you break - sometimes we do need one, i know! Thank you so much for your visit and always encouraging comment - you make me smile!Are you wprking on new paper projects?Keep warm and have the most joyful day!xox

Anita, chere! I will miss you even for your short hiatus --- hope its for something fun! Your regular visits to Dress and your comments mean SO much to me... i'm even writing a post dedicated to you about romantic clothing, will let you know when its out! xx Anne

hey lovely lady - I hope you are stopping for good reasons (and not just fallen out of love with your blog like me!)AND I hope it does you good. I will miss your posts and your words of wisdom...and will be awaiting your return. As will all you blogging pals!sending lots and lots of love across the pond,fee x

After reading a few of the comments of those that are in the know.I'm glad you are out for fun and relaxation.Sounds like you may be in our old stomping grounds real soon.Steak and Stein I hear is still there :) Maybe I'll see you and Ruben cruising down Whittier Blvd. Denise

~ Lovely Anita, I do hope YOU and YOURS are running away with those gypsies for a short while to energise and re charge!I always play your wonderful music whilst I read and very often reread your beautiful words....Thank you for always being a generous and kind friend on here...I will check out this beautiful book too! With the kindest thoughts....Maria x

Oh Anita! Hi, my dear friend! Yes, having my family take me out to dinner was a complete surprise. I had had my siblings and my dd's fams over on Sunday night. Then on Monday morning they invited me to dinner and I ate toooo much....!

Today I have been very good girl and then I come to your post again and see that bite taken out of the ice cream icicle and my mouth says YES!!!! hahahahahaha. Yet... I did resist. BIG (hug)

Dear Anita, Just got on my feet again from my battle with the flu. I have been sick alot this winter, so maybe need to give some attention to my immune system. I went back and read your "cool" post. I am the fire in this relationship and if Tim didn't cool me off from time to time I would probably go up in smoke!! As always I loved the song and your translation was wonderful. Oh how I wanted to be the woman in the straw hat!!!

Now what's this about you taking a break? Enjoy yourself and take some time......just not too much. I am being selfish and I'm not ashamed of it!! Your posts lift all our spirits and you are a drug we can't do without for long. Seriously I understand that sometimes you need a break from even something you enjoy. I am almost ready for one.I just found out that someone called skeeslouisesays.blog has copied all 83 of my 2012 posts and has started on 2013. They are all on her blog, word for word, picture for picture. I have turned it in to google and they are removing them one by one.

Anita, thanks for the visit. If you go to skeezlouisesays.blogspot.com you will see where she has a blog called Nice Picture. Click on that and you will see everything.

I saw that the music was not there for Garcon Glason so I went to Youtube and found an April March video that had the French (and what looked like Chinese) I could read some but had to use my handy dandy google translator to get the rest. I didn't want to miss out!! I didn't know her so am glad to learn of a new artist.Have a delightful vacation.

Anita, It's me again. Since this person was copying all my work, Zach did something that now prevents anyone from being able to copy and paste. You need to do the same because I just checked and I am able to copy your words and images.

Oh I can so tell you are excited to go. I can tell. Who wouldn't be; sun, warmer temps, sunshine and family and friends. I'm glad for you. Too bad you don't have a connector in SLC? Oh, I must meet you and hug you someday!

I just ordered Koralee's book. If not for coming over to your beautiful post I would have missed this wonderful endeavour. I cannot wait to get it and display it in the PINK cottage. I'm actually going to be in Vancouver in August and Washington State. I think I am going to visit Rose in Abbotsford this time. Girlfriend time at the beach in Birch Bay. Randy's mom has a cabin there. It's time to visit it one last time. Take a lovely break and enjoy your wee trip. I know you will. Stay warm my sweet Anita. I LOVE youxoxoxoxoxo

Have a marvelous break. You put so much into your posts, I can understand the need for it. I need to do them every once and a while too.Looking forward to your return... and the guilty pleasure of your blog!

Hello little bluebirds!I have always loved this little box Anita. It was very hard for me to let go of but I knew it needed to come to your house perhaps for about 10 years and then can you send it back???? Ha ha, tee hee...I love you, you know I'm just playing!Happy you are taking a break and what a great accomplishment this, her very own book!

Thank you for coming to my color show Anita! Yes - time is such a luxury - especially nowadays. But as an artist, mostly you do pay for it. That is because i love how my friend keeps going! But you do too my friend, and so beautifully! Have an amazing weekend, full of joy, creativity and LOVE! xox

I hope you have a lovely restful break and get to relax. You so deserve it but we will miss you!!!! We all need time out to soothe the soul, calm the mind and rest the body!!! Enjoy and take care always!best wishesFrancesxxxx

Are you taking a long break from blogging? The blogging world will not be the same without you, you know! Your book WILL arrive before your absence! How are you Anita? How is your art? I am thinking up some new ideas. I must for it is not good to stay in the same groove. I am excited about this although there is always the underlying guilt of not making a comfortable salary. Do you understand that?

There is so much I love visually about your post. Those spotty tights, the Repetto shoes (love them) and your exquisite header. I do believe that sweetmeats are possibly more attractive to the eye than to the palate!

I am seriously in love with that book. She really has stayed true to her love of colours and the theme is wonderful; just my thing.

Hi dearest Anita!!!!!What a fun post- and I love ice cream!!!!!!I love the mint green colored photos you post of heels and dresses- it's such a cool color!!!!!Did you watch the Oscars red carpet? I thought Anne Hathaway looked so pretty in her Prada dress (the back was gorgeous) and Tiffany jewels.We had a major snow & ice storm here last Thursday. We got almost 6 inches of snow & ice!!!!! It looks beautiful!!!!!Hope you had a great weekend!!!!!Hugs,Shannon

Hi Anita, its Jan, not George this time.Enjoy your break, I am finding it hard getting back into blogging having had time out to help Mom and Stepdad move, some days I just don't go on the PC and have not been keeping up with friends.Hope to find my mojo soon lol.Have fun, not long till St George's Day when George will be barking out about it.Love and Hugs Jan, George and Tiny Tess xxx

Bonjour Anita, Oh I do hope your break fills you with inspiration and joy. I've missed a few posts. Must catch up soon. Will be thinking of you and wishing you rest and relaxation and every comfort as you recharge! Hugs and bisous,Kirsten

Dearest Anita, thanks for your lovely visit! Glad you like the butterfly quote - and of course you can use it! It's nit from me, but the author is unknown, so i didn't put anything. Hope you enjoy your break, I'm very tired and feel like i need one too, but also want to get on with my new designs. Let's see! Havea cozy and delightful evening, until soon!

Hi Anita! Isn't Koralee's book wonderful!?!It's such eye candy! The ice cream ideas are fabulous and the crafts are sweet. I have to admit, I've taken an unplanned break from frequent blogging just because life has been coming at lightening speed! It seems like every time I might have a little free time, something big comes along... I do love posting and visiting everyone though. I know a balance will soon come. This school year and helping my aging father and little old Misty (who's 17+) has kept me hopping. I hope you are doing well, Anita! God bless you always - Maria

Hi sweet friend...I feel so bad I have not come over for a few days!!! Life has been busy...how in the world can it get any busier..BUT IT DOES! Just wanted to tell you I am always thinking of you...hope your week is going amazing {remember the T & T words} xoxox

I hope this finds you well and happy. You are so fun to go to my posts early and give me an instant smile with I see your name/site name right off first thing. You are a good friend!

I 'AM' having a great time with my posts lately. I affectionately term it 'dress up'! You should see my Master BR when I am done. Oh my goodness, my HM could claim it grounds for divorce, hahahaha. But my HM is so nice and he spoils me and doesn't EVER cause me any consternation. Isn't that wonderful?

Hello Anita,Oh, I loved your comment today so much, thank you. You cry easily too, and you get that from your dad - how wonderful! I bet your parents were so special to you. I cry at weddings, funerals, and especially at my kid's graduations. There's something about their achievements that tear me up. I love what you had to say, and I even forwarded your comment to the girls. I told them you have a way with words. I didn't realize that it may be a gift.....thank you so much for your visit. Whenever I see your face, I am filled with joy.~Love, Sheri

Dearest Anita, thank you SO MUCH for your sweet comment on my blog design! So glad you like it. I've been wanting to do this for quite some time, but never got around to it ... and, indeed, it IS wonderful an exiting to start over again! I feel, this is vital for me somehow, also in my painting and with the magazine, This gives me energy!If you hop on over today, the giveaway is up now - you can win a pair of fashionable eyeglasses - have a look!Love, M.

Stopped by to grab your web address from the menu bar because my list of Beautiful Storytellers disappeared yesterday and I am running around like a mother hen gathering her chics. :) Thought I'd leave another hello here. I hope you know how highly your posting is missed, but I also hope you are good to yourself and enjoy your time off.Love you.

Hi gorgeous Anita:) I am stopping in to wish you a happy weekend as I know you are on a blog-break. Hope all is well and I love everything about this post. Repettos are my favorite flats:) and I think I will mix up some chocolate cake batter!

YOU have been a busy girl this week! How was High School? Thank you for the sweet email this morning....I have been running all day long today. Time to sit with a cup of tea for a few minutes before I do more running...I have to now get my daughter from ballet and then take her to meet with her friends and then one more late night drive to pick her up...the hat I wear tonight is the one of a Taxi driver...my sweet husband has the flu bug now..so it is all up to me. I will probably get in a few more cuppas tonight yet. xox Make it a great weekend...hugs and love to you.

My sweet Anita, yes, REST is wonderful - sometimes the very bet thing! Just came home from a awlk through town and along the river. It was the first day since WEEKS here with blue sky and sunshine and i enjoyed it so much! Noe, i feel like resting too ;) A nice cup of tea anda little bit of blog visits. Hope your weekend is sweet and wonderful. Are you going away at all now, or just stay home and take it easy? LOVE! xox

Oh Anita we could meet at the Equinox LOL! I am getting your music through this time...just lovely! A beautiful Sunday morning here with the sun trying to come through after a few days of rain....Cheers to you with Bubbles...love Dzintra xo

I hope that you are having a lovely blogging break and many thanks for coming to visit me and your sweet note.Have been thinking of you and you are missed here, and we will all be happy when you return.

Hello beautiful Anita!!!!!I will miss your blog but totally understand- breaks are a necessary thing!!!!!I will keep stopping by to leave messages to you though plus to see when you resume blogging again....How was your weekend? We continue to have snow here which I love but funny how it's late in the season!!!!Have you been buying any new spring clothes/shoes yet? I haven't- I keep seeing winter items I love!!!!!! :-)I wish we lived closer so we could meet up for coffee!!!!Hope you have a fabulous Monday & keep checking for my messages when you get a chance so we can chat....Love ya!!!!!Shannon

Hi i just found your blog at the first time, så sorry that you are having a brak but i understan, it must feel gor four yourself and it must be fum och to enjoy.Sorry about my english, four a woman in Sweden. Hope to se you soon.

My dear zusje How I wish you could be at my vriendinnen-verjaardag .I received Koralee's book as a gift from Saskia .Absolutely wonderful and SO KORALEE !If you were asked to write/make a bookwhat would it be about ?

oeverhere the sun is shiningand it is for the first time this year I am sitting here with the door open . The door in my livingroom to the garden .You are such a blessing in my life Anita.You always find beautiful and inspiring and comforting words for me .I let them in my heart and muse about them .You are right Life is getting me in a beautiful happy and stressless part and ALL will turn out for the best .I think of you and pray life will bring you too to happy times .Big sister-hug !

Hello my friend, so nice of you to stop by the shop this morning. Even though we keep in touch in other ways of communication, you are highly missed in blogland, but I look forward to more inspiration from you which I know you will enjoy even more so when you are rested. I have been posting a little here and there, but still taking my time getting back to the art table. Maybe soon because I have a few spring goodies up my sleeve, and Easter is early this year.MUAH!!

I would LOVE to sit by YOUR SIDE and have an ICE CREAM my sweet Anita! I wish you a wonderful and relaxing break and will be truly happy to see you return!!! Because every one of your posts make this virtual space prettier :) LOTS of Happiness!

Dear Anita, thank you for your very kind comment...I have been inundated lately and feel like I am buried in piles of boxes, but it will come together...My family and I love ice cream! My husband's family started the first ice cream bar in our area in the early '50's...so we know a thing or two about ice cream!! Koralee's book looks wonderful, what a fab idea for her! I will look into more carefully when I have a minute....I am hoping you will find your path clearing again very soon, hugs and love to you, N.xo

Oh Anita! You are so fun and funny. Too bad you have tons of snow! We are having nice weather finally [ 45° ] and sunny. I am so glad to have winter acting like it is behind us [HM and me]. We still have snow on our lawn but there is green grass around the edges. Snow has stayed on our lawn since Christmas Eve.

Your ice cream banner is so tempting, stop it!

Thank you sweet friend for your analysis of my blog/posts, etc. It is nice to hear that it is evident. Yay! (hug) and :D to you!